The word roadhouse may evoke visions of a smoke-filled, seedy eatery wherein nefarious characters sit at a dingy bar covered with empty shot glasses. But Tillman’s Roadhouse, a 100-seat restaurant and bar located in an early 20th century storefront in the Bishop Arts District, is anything but.
It opened nearly two decades ago under the name Tillman’s Corner, and has thrived under the direction of Sara Tillman since 1997 after her husband, Ricky Tillman passed away. The man behind the menu is Executive Chef Dan Landsberg, a veteran of such upscale kitchens as Stephan Pyles and Seventeen Seventeen.
“Tillman’s is about bringing those memories, whether it’s food or sound with the ‘80s music that we play, or the country music that we play … it’s the flavors of the food,” said Landsberg of Tillman’s fun approach.
Music ranging from Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton remixes to standards by Abba and Frank Sinatra give diners an eclectic mix of music to listen to as they nosh. Tillman’s Roadhouse is hopping on the weekends. It’s a fabulous place to meet friends for happy hour or impress someone who has just moved to North Texas.
“When you walk in, you’re just in a different world. It’s a combination of elements that makes it unique,” said Cynthia Cruz before eating a fried avocado crouton.
Here is a list of a few dishes we recommend ordering off Tillman’s gourmet chuck wagon:
- Venison Frito Pie (click here for the recipe)
- The Big Sexy
- Goat Cheese Tater Tots
- S’mores served tableside
- Fried Pickle Cup
If you can’t make it out to their location in the Bishop Arts District in Oak Cliff and don’t want to wait for their new location to open in Fort Worth, then simply Gourmet Yourself.
Tillman's Roadhouse in Oak Cliff
Bishop Arts District
324 West 7th Street
Dallas, Texas 75208
214-942-0988
